Death overseas

If asked, New Zealand Embassies overseas and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade can assist following the death of a New Zealand citizen overseas.

If the deceased was not accompanied by a close family member, arrangements will be made for next-of-kin in New Zealand to be notified by the New Zealand Police.

The Ministry and the Embassy can help the family by:

• advising on options available – local burial or cremation (where this is an option), or repatriation of remains or ashes to New Zealand
• advising on approximate costs of the options available
• contact details for local funeral directors who can assist with funeral or repatriation arrangements.

When remains or ashes are being returned to New Zealand it is recommended that a funeral director in New Zealand be engaged to liaise with the overseas funeral director regarding arrangements. Assistance with this can be provided, if necessary.

Depending on the cause of death, an autopsy or post-mortem may be required by the overseas authorities. This is governed by local law and regulations, and the New Zealand Government cannot intervene. Local regulations and conditions may also cause delays in the release of remains for cremation, burial or return to New Zealand. Consular officials can liaise with local authorities but may not be able to hasten the local processes.

All costs associated with the death of a New Zealand citizen overseas, including funeral expenses or repatriation of remains to New Zealand and return of personal effects, are the responsibility of next-of-kin.

Print this page

Page last updated: Tuesday, 23 September 2008, 15:53 NZST